Letters to a Writer of Colour

A collection of essays on the power of literature and the craft of writing from an international array of writers of color, exploring how fiction can be written more inclusively and engagingly. The book features contributions from Taymour Soomro, Madeleine Thien, Amitava Kumar, Tahmima Anam, Ingrid Rojas Contreras, Zeyn Joukhadar, Kiese Laymon, Deepa Anappara, Tiphanie Yanique, Xiaolu Guo, Jamil Jan Kochai, Vida Cruz-Borja, Femi Kayode, Nadifa Mohamed, and Leila Aboulela, in conversation with Myriam Gurba, Mohammed Hanif, and Sharlene Teo.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

A rich tapestry of essays, personal experiences, and creative inspiration, this remarkable collection delves into the profound power of literature and the art of writing from a diverse array of writers of color. Filled with empathy and wisdom, these essays offer a profound exploration of the experiences of writing from the margins, serving as a guide, a source of comfort, and a rallying call all at once.

Laila Lalami, the acclaimed author of "Conditional Citizens," contributes a thought-provoking essay that challenges the notion of rigid stories about identity and encourages us to embrace the complexity and diversity of human experiences. Madeleine Thien, in her insightful piece, explores how writing creates the very space in which it can thrive, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Amitava Kumar delves into the complexities of authenticity, questioning the notion that it can be confined to a physical identity or a wallet-sized license.

Tahmima Anam fearlessly tackles the subject of humor, offering a poignant reflection on the importance of laughter and its ability to heal and transform. Ingrid Rojas Contreras bravely tackles the challenging task of writing about trauma, exploring the ways in which art can provide a means of healing and empowerment. Zeyn Joukhadar explores the intersection of queerness and English, advocating for the power of refusing to translate oneself and embracing the richness of one's cultural heritage.

Kiese Laymon candidly shares her struggles with the fear of writing the stories that truly matter to her, offering a poignant testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Deepa Anappara explores the challenges of writing even in conditions that impede the creation of art, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the transformative power of storytelling.

In addition to these captivating essays, the book features engaging conversations between renowned writers and critics, including Tiphanie Yanique, Xiaolu Guo, Jamil Jan Kochai, Vida Cruz-Borja, Femi Kayode, Nadifa Mohamed, and Leila Aboulela, Myriam Gurba, Mohammed Hanif, and Sharlene Teo. These conversations shed light on the diverse perspectives and experiences of writers of color and contribute to a deeper understanding of the literary landscape.

"The Peripheral Vision" is a testament to the resilience and creativity of writers from marginalized backgrounds, offering a fresh and inclusive perspective on the art of storytelling. It is a must-read for anyone interested in how we read and should read fiction, as it challenges our assumptions, expands our horizons, and encourages us to embrace the richness and diversity of the literary world.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 135 x 216 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529115840